Village of Westmont
Date Issued: August 24, 2015
This week, Westmont schools are back in session and the Westmont Police and Fire Departments want to make sure that our students arrive to school and home safely. Here are some safety tips for both kids and adults.
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY TIPS
It is important that all children learn about safe school bus rules. Here are some helpful bus safety rules for children:
• While waiting for the bus, take five giant steps from the curb until the bus has stopped completely.
• Stay seated at all times.
• Keep head, arms and hands inside the bus. Never throw anything out of the bus window.
• Be careful that clothing, book bags, and key rings don't get caught in the handrails or doors.
• If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver. Otherwise, the bus driver may not be able to see you.
RIDING A BIKE TO SCHOOL
Some students ride their bikes to school; make sure your kids always wear their helmets. All bike helmets manufactured or sold in the U.S. are required to meet federal safety standards. Helmet use can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 percent.
WALKING TO SCHOOL SAFELY
Plan the route your children are going to take if they are walking to school. It is important to try to minimize the number of streets they have to cross. Keep it as simple as possible. Then, parents and students can practice the route together so that everyone is comfortable with the plan. Teach children to keep away from vacant lots, fields, and any other locations that might not have other people around. Please make sure your children do not walk alone, especially if they are young. Have your child walk with older siblings, neighbors or meet them yourself at a specific spot. Finally, make sure your children know that they should never talk to strangers and they should never accept a ride from someone they do not know. Students should be instructed to report any suspicious activity to your family or your teacher when they get to school.
SLOW DOWN SAFETY SIGNS
The Westmont Police Department has Slow Down Safety Signs that can be placed in the yards of residents. If you are interested in getting one, please stop by the Police Department, 500 N. Cass, during business hours, or email chiefofpolice@westmont.il.gov for more info.
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Contact: Larry McIntyre
Village of Westmont Communications Director
630-417-0280, lmcintyre@westmont.il.gov
